Rich, creamy, and just the right amount of boozy-this Bourbon Cream cocktail is one of those drinks that feels like a warm hug in a glass. Whether you’re sipping it fireside in the winter or pouring it over ice for a summer evening treat, it’s a crowd-pleaser. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress. It’s simple, smooth, and indulgent in all the right ways.
Bourbon Cream
Ingredients
Makes 1 drink | Prep time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
– 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon
– 1 oz (30 ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter touch)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– A dash of vanilla extract (about 1/8 tsp)
– Ice
– Optional garnish: ground nutmeg or cinnamon
What You’ll Need
– Cocktail shaker
– Rocks glass or highball glass
– Jigger or measuring spoons
– Fine strainer (optional, for smoother texture)
Method
- Fill your shaker halfway with ice.
- Pour in the bourbon, cream, simple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Shake it well-about 15 seconds-until the outside of the shaker feels frosty. This chills the drink and helps the cream blend smoothly.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon if you like a little spice on top.
Tips & Tricks
– For a pretty layered look, pour the cream slowly over the back of a spoon into the glass instead of shaking it in.
– Use fresh, cold cream-older cream can separate or curdle when shaken.
– If you’re out of simple syrup, dissolve 1 tsp sugar in 0.5 oz (15 ml) warm water as a quick substitute.
– Want a deeper flavor? Swap in maple syrup or brown sugar syrup instead of simple syrup.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the bourbon, vanilla, and sweetener ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add the cream and shake just before serving to keep the texture smooth and fresh.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed right after it’s made, but if you do have leftovers, store them in the fridge and give it a good shake before serving again. The cream may separate a bit, but shaking will bring it back together.
Serving Suggestions
This is a great after-dinner drink, especially with:
– A square of dark chocolate
– A slice of pecan pie
– A few buttery shortbread cookies
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails because it’s just that good. It’s the kind of drink you bring out when you want to treat yourself or impress your guests without a lot of fuss.
Variations
Chocolate Bourbon Cream
– Add 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder to the simple syrup before shaking.
– You can also use chocolate syrup or a splash of chocolate liqueur for extra richness.
Spiced Bourbon Cream
– Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the shaker.
– Try cinnamon-infused simple syrup for a seasonal twist.
Coffee Bourbon Cream
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) of chilled espresso or strong brewed coffee.
– Great for brunch or as a dessert cocktail.
Non-Alcoholic Version
– Use a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative (available at many liquor-free shops).
– Keep the cream, vanilla, and sweetener as-is.
Food Pairings
Chocolate Desserts
That creamy texture and vanilla note pair perfectly with dark chocolate brownies or flourless chocolate cake.
Barbecued Meats
The smoky flavor of bourbon pairs beautifully with grilled or smoked meats. The cream cools the heat and rounds out each bite.
Cheese Plate
Aged gouda, sharp cheddar, or blue cheese all work well with the sweet, oaky flavors of this drink.
FAQs
Can I use a different whiskey?
Yes! Rye whiskey gives a spicier kick, while Irish whiskey makes it smoother and lighter.
What’s the best dairy-free option?
Coconut cream or oat-based creamers work great. Just make sure they’re unsweetened so you can control the sweetness.
Can I batch this for a party?
Definitely. Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings and mix everything except the cream ahead of time. Add cream and shake or stir before serving.
How do I boost the vanilla flavor?
Try scraping in a bit of vanilla bean or use a high-quality extract. A little goes a long way.
Is this drink only for winter?
Not at all. Serve it over ice in the summer or warm it up gently for a cozy winter treat.
What You Can Swap
– Bourbon: Any whiskey you like, or even spiced rum.
– Cream: Half-and-half, coconut cream, or oat cream.
– Sweetener: Maple syrup, agave, or brown sugar syrup.
Why This Recipe Works
Shaking the ingredients chills the drink quickly and gives it a smooth, velvety texture. The cream softens the boldness of the bourbon, while the vanilla and sweetener round everything out. It’s simple, but the balance of flavors makes it feel special.
This has been my go-to cocktail for cozy nights in or when I want to offer something indulgent and easy to friends. It’s one of those drinks that tastes like more effort than it takes, and that’s always a win in my book.
